Heat Safety and Why It’s So Important

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in America, resulting in hundreds of deaths each year. Electric screens can help keep the heat out. They also don’t affect your view. While you don’t have to worry about the heat causing any long-term damage while you’re inside, heat safety is still a very prevalent issue in the Sunshine State.

North American summers are hot and they’re hot everywhere, all over the country. Most summers see staggering heat waves in one or more parts of the U.S., but lately, this trend has been spreading to nearly the whole county, not to mention the world. So, it’s best to know what to do if something happens to you or someone you love.

Heat stroke

This is one of the most serious heat-related disorders. This happens when the body’s temperature rises quickly and you’re unable to sweat, meaning your body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, your body’s temperature can climb to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher— within 10 to 15 minutes. If emergency treatment is not given, heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability.

Symptoms:

Chills

Hallucinations

Hot, dry skin

High body temperature

Painful headache

Slurred speech

Confusion/dizziness

If this happens, move the person affected to a cool shaded area, soak their clothes in water and spray/sponge/shower them with it. Also, fan their body and call 911.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion means your body lost a lot of water and salt, usually through extreme sweating.

Symptoms:

Nausea

Muscle cramps

Dizziness and confusion

Heavy sweating

Extreme weakness or fatigue

Clammy, moist skin

Fast, shallow breathing

If this happens, have the person rest in a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area. They must also drink plenty of water. This is crucial. Also, a cool shower, bath or sponge bath is highly recommended.

At East Coast Electric Screening, LLC, we cover a lot of ground in Southwest Florida. We serve Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties. Give us a call today at (561)-746-2622.